Description

Erect-growing, warm-season, perennial legume. Grows 18 to 40 inches tall. Deep rooted and tolerant of drought, soil acidity, and low fertility. Most varieties have high levels of tannin that reduce digestibility and animal acceptance. Low-tannin varieties are available.

Uses

Erosion control, hay, pasture.

Advantages

Tolerant of drought, soil acidity, and low fertility. Nonbloating. Good summer growth.

Disadvantages

Unpalatable as pasture. Low yielding. Stemmy and low quality when mature. Low quality as hay due to high leaf loss during raking and baling.

Seeding

Rate: 20-30 lb/a
Depth: ¼-½ in
Date: Mar 15-Apr 15

Harvest

First harvest: May 15-Jun 1
Annual yield: 1-2 tons dry matter/a

Publications

• Forage Identification and Use Guide
• Grain & Forage Crop Guide for Kentucky
• Growing Lespedeza in Kentucky